frequently asked questions

Will you publish my book?

Although the designers at Navigator Graphics are also founders and editors at independent publishing houses, we do not provide any traditional publishing services for hire. None of the books designed by Navigator Graphics will be a part of the publishing houses founded by the Navigator Graphics staff. The services provided by our company are everything you would need to be your own publisher (i.e.: cover design, interior design, typesetting, securing copyright, marketing consultation, media kit design, ebook design.)

Will you edit my book?

At present, we do not offer editorial services. You must come to us with your final draft.

Will you print my book?

We do not currently provide print services; however, we can guide you in choosing a Print On Demand (POD) service that is right for your project. Generally, we suggest indie authors use CreateSpace, Lightning Source or its counterpart IngramSpark, the world’s leading print-on-demand service, for its POD solutions. Through these companies, you can secure distribution to outlets such as Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, and indie bookstores for a small distribution fee each year (currently that fee is $12/yr). The only other fee associated with set-up are a one-time upload fee of $75.00 and the cost of an ISBN from Bowker (the company that sells ISBN numbers). ISBNs can be bought individually or in blocks if you plan multiple books. The consultants here at Navigator Graphics are here to help you find your way through this process. We recommend IngramSpark, which is owned by Ingram, the world’s largest distributor of books, and an offshoot of their Lightning Source POD services. IngramSpark is intended for small presses and self-publishing authors. We have worked extensively with Lightning Source through our own publishing houses and have been very satisfied with the relationship and the quality of their products.

How much will it cost to print my book through POD services such as Lightning Source, IngramSpark or CreateSpace?

The cost of printing will vary depending on size, length, format, and chosen printer. For an average example, on Lightning Source, for a book that is 5.5 x 8.5, 200 pages long, paperback, black and white interior, color cover (gloss or matte finish), it would cost around $3.80/ea to print. (Less if you buy more than one at a time.)

How much can I expect to make when I sell my book through POD services such as Lightning Source or IngramSpark?

Author earnings vary on size, length, chosen printer and whether the book is sold by hand or through a retailer such as Amazon. In general, here is what you could make on a book priced at $16.95 with a length of roughly 200 pages (prices are estimates.)

So, with this breakdown, if you were to print the books and sell them by hand at events where you’re not required to give a retailer a discount (i.e.: bookstores) or on your website then you would make roughly $13.00 per book sold after cost.

We take the same book and break down the profit from a sale on Amazon or Barnes & Noble–retailers that require a 50% discount–then the profit would be: $4.60 per book sold.

Will you upload my book to Lightning Source or IngramSpark for me?

While we strongly encourage authors to proceed with upload on their own, we will provide guidance if you become confused. The process is very simple and outlets such as Lightning Source, IngramSpark, and CreateSpace have made the interface user-friendly and made How-To videos explaining the process that we can pass along to you. Rest assured, you can do it!

Why do I need Navigator Graphics to design my book? Why can’t I just design it myself?

When you come to Navigator Graphics you’re not just paying for a book designer but for the institutional knowledge of our staff concerning industry trends, marketing insights, and the highest-quality design sensibilities. All the designers and consultants at Navigator Graphics are working writers, and as such, we have an appreciation for the time and energy you’ve devoted to your book and we strive to help you present your project to the market in the best light possible.

Are there hidden fees?

No. We clearly outline our design packages and the process of packaging your book in our “How it Works” section. We believe in total transparency and in making the publishing process as approachable as possible. If you have questions that aren’t answered on our website, we are more than happy to have a phone consultation with you before proceeding. Contact Us.